Understanding the Path to Adoption in Tennessee

Adoption is a beautiful way to build or expand a family. At Hagar and Phillips Attorneys at Law, we believe that every child deserves a loving home, and we are dedicated to helping families through every step of this meaningful process. Whether you’re considering foster care adoption, step-parent adoption, independent adoption, or non-related adoption, understanding the different types and legal requirements is essential to making an informed decision. This blog is an educational guide to help you on your adoption journey in Tennessee.

Types of Adoption and Why You Might Choose Each One

There are various types of adoption, and the right one for you will depend on your unique circumstances and goals. Below, we breakdown the four main types of adoption and explain why you might choose each option.

1. Foster Care Adoption

Foster care adoption involves adopting a child in the foster care system. These children may have been removed from their birth families due to neglect, abuse, or other challenging situations. By adopting through foster care, you’re giving a child a chance to be part of a stable and permanent family.

Many families choose foster care adoption because it is often a more affordable option and includes support services for adoptive families. It can also be an opportunity to provide a home for older children or siblings who might otherwise face long waits for adoption.

Why Choose Foster Care Adoption?

• You’re motivated to provide a home for a child in need.
• You may want an affordable adoption process.
• You’re open to adopting older children or sibling groups.

2. Step-Parent Adoption

Step-parent adoption occurs when a step-parent wishes to adopt their spouse's biological or legal child legally. This type of adoption solidifies the bond between the step-parent and stepchild and provides legal rights and responsibilities for the adopting parent.

This might be the right choice for families where then on-custodial biological parent is uninvolved, absent, or unable to care for the child. It creates a legal foundation for the relationship the step-parent already shares with the child.

Why Choose Step-Parent Adoption?

• You’ve built a strong parental bond with your stepchild and want to formalize it legally.
• You want your stepchild to have legal protections like inheritance rights.

3. Independent Adoption

Independent adoption is a private arrangement between the birth parents and the adoptive parents. This type of adoption does not involve an adoption agency, although it does require legal assistance. Independent adoption allows more personal involvement and choice in the process and is often used for newborn adoptions.

It can provide a more direct and flexible route for adopting an infant. However, working with experienced legal professionals is essential to ensure that all requirements are met and the adoption is legally valid.

Why Choose Independent Adoption?

• You prefer a more personal and direct adoption process.
• You’re looking to adopt a newborn or infant.
• You’ve built a relationship with the expectant birth parents.

4. Non-Related Adoption

Non-related adoption refers to adopting a child who is not biologically or legally related to you. This category includes adoptions arranged through agencies and organizations and international adoptions.

This type of adoption is ideal for families open to welcoming any child into their home. It may involve adopting infants, older children, or siblings locally or internationally.

Why Choose Non-Related Adoption?

• You’re open to adopting a child you have no prior connection to.
• You’re looking for a child through an agency or international program.
• You want to explore options beyond foster care or independent adoption.

Legal Requirements for Adoption in Tennessee

If you’re planning to adopt in Tennessee, there are specific requirements that you must meet. The state of Tennessee ensures that adoptive parents are prepared to provide a safe, stable, and loving home. Below are the key requirements you’ll need to satisfy:

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for adoption. If you’re adopting a child from foster care, you must be at least 21 years old.
• Residency Requirement: You must be a resident of Tennessee.
• Home Study: A licensed child-placing agency must conduct a home study to evaluate your living conditions, background, and readiness to adopt.
• Background Check: You must pass a criminal background check and complete fingerprinting.
• Financial Stability: You must demonstrate that you can financially support your family, including the new child.
• Emotional Readiness: You must show that you can meet the emotional needs of your family and the child you'll be adopting.

Meeting these requirements ensures that you are fullyprepared to provide a loving and suitable environment for the child you adopt.

Common Questions About theAdoption Process

Adopting a child is a life-changing decision, and it’snatural to have questions. Here are the answers to some common concerns:

1. How long does the adoption process take inTennessee?
The timeline can vary depending on the type of adoption. Foster care adoptionsmay take a year or more, while step-parent or independent adoptions may befinalized more quickly.

2. What does the home study process involve?
The home study includes interviews with the potential adoptive parents, areview of financial records, home visits to ensure a safe living environment,and any necessary training.

3. Can single individuals adopt in Tennessee?
Yes, single individuals are eligible to adopt if they meet the samerequirements as couples.

4. Are there financial resources available tohelp with adoption?
For foster care adoptions, families may receive financial assistance, such as adoption subsidies or coverage of legal expenses. Independent and agency adoptions can be more costly but may qualify for adoption tax credits.

5. How do I start the adoption process?
The first step is to determine the type of adoption that’s right for your family. From there, you’ll work with professionals like licensed agencies and experienced attorneys to guide you through the requirements and paperwork.

Start Your Adoption Journey with Hagar and Phillips

Adoption is a path filled with love, hope, and new beginnings. At Hagar and Phillips Attorneys at Law, we are here to guide you through this important process and ensure it’s as smooth and joyful as possible. Whether you’re considering foster care adoption, step-parent adoption, independent adoption, or non-related adoption, our team can help make your dream of a “forever family” a reality.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you build or expand your family. Together, we can make your adoption experience a joyous, easy, and happy one.